Community Forums on the Voice to Parliament

Local MP Justine Elliot is encouraging local residents who want more information about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament to register for two local events being held later this month.

‘This year we’ll be asked to vote in a referendum on whether First Nations people should be acknowledged in our Constitution and have a Voice to Parliament,’ Ms Elliot said.

‘Labor went to the last Federal election with a clear commitment to holding a referendum on the Voice to Parliament.

‘This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape our country. This vote will be a huge responsibility, and local residents are telling me they’d like to understand the details better. That’s why I will be hosting Community Forums with special guest Noel Pearson.’

FORUM 1 Noel Pearson in Conversation with Kerry O’Brien

DATE: Tuesday 22 August

TIME: 5:30 for 6:00pm start

LOCATION: Lennox Head Cultural Centre

FORUM 2 Noel Pearson Community Information Session

DATE: Wednesday 23 August

TIME: 8:30 for 9:00am start

LOCATION: Tweed Heads Civic Centre

‘For 122 years Australia’s Constitution has not recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians,’ Ms Elliot continued.

‘This referendum will give us the opportunity to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians in our Constitution through a Voice to Parliament.

‘Constitutional recognition through a Voice is about two things: recognition and listening.

‘Recognition of the 65,000 years of shared history and continuous connection to this land by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.

‘Listening because listening to communities leads to better policies and better outcomes.’

Due to high demand and limited seating, registration for this event is essential. Register at https://justineelliot.com.au/events or phone Justine’s office on 0755 23 43 71.